Courtney Brown could have been playing in Denver on Sunday as a member of the visiting Washington Redskins.
However, a strong Denver recruiting process, featuring former Redskins cornerback Champ Bailey, helped reel in the free-agent defensive end after a battle between the two teams.
“I tried to help get Courtney here by telling him my opinion,” said Bailey, who was traded to the Broncos by the Redskins for Clinton Portis in March 2004. “We all have to make our own choices, but I just told him that I was more comfortable here and why. I was at both places, so I could give him a description of both places and how each place felt for me.”
With the information provided by Bailey Denver defensive line-tackles coach Andre Patterson, Brown – who played for Patterson in Cleveland – was able to reach a decision.
“I talked to a lot of people and it seemed like this was the best fit for me,” Brown said. “So far, so good. I’m enjoying it.”
Brown has been an integral part of the Denver’s explosive new defensive front. After missing five weeks with a dislocated left elbow, Brown has been healthy for the past three games and has made an impact.
“I knew he’d play well here,” Patterson said. “That’s why we tried so hard to get him here.”
Bailey practices again
There is optimism Bailey will play Sunday, but the team will know more today and determine his status on game day. He practiced Thursday, although he was not going full speed.
“He’ll test it (today),” Denver coach Mike Shanahan said of the left hamstring that kept Bailey out of the Broncos’ victory over Jacksonville. “We’ll have a better feel for it then.”
Darrent Williams continued to practice and he is expected to resume his right cornerback and return duties. He didn’t play against the Jaguars because of a sprained left ankle. Cornerback Roc Alexander was the only player who did not practice.
Atwater awaiting day
Steve Atwater won’t be alone when he enters the Broncos’ Ring of Fame at halftime on Sunday. The former safety is bringing several family members and friends, including close friend and former NFL safety Blaine Bishop.
“It’s overwhelming knowing this is about to happen,” Atwater said. “It’s a special honor. We’ve all been looking forward to it.”
Foxworth honored
Rookie cornerback Domonique Foxworth was named the NFL rookie of the week. Foxworth, in his first start, had an interception and a fumble recovery in the victory over Jacksonville.
Footnotes
After tape review, safety Nick Ferguson was credited with a forced fumble Sunday. … Former Denver defensive end Anton Palepoi will work out in Minnesota today.
Staff writer Bill Williamsoncan be reached at 303 820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
